Medications for Scleroderma

The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included, so ask your doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications as advised by your doctor, or according to the instructions provided. If you have further questions about usage or side effects, contact your doctor.

There are no medications available to cure or halt the progression of scleroderma. Scleroderma is treated on a symptom-by-symptom basis.

Over-the-counter Medications

Prescription Medications

Disease-modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs)

These drugs are given in an effort to slow or halt the progression of scleroderma. While research has yet to prove that these drugs can actual modify scleroderma’s course, they are often given anyway. They are all immunosuppressive agents. Because scleroderma is believed to be caused (at least in part) by an overactive immune system, it is hoped that calming the immune system’s activity will slow scleroderma’s progress.

Calcium-channel blockers can reduce the symptoms of
Raynaud’s phenomenon
by relaxing blood vessels. This allows better blood circulation through the fingers, toes, and the tip the of nose. When exposed to cold, you’ll have less trouble with skin blanching and less numbness and tingling. Use of calcium-channel blockers can reduce the chance of developing sores or ulcers on your fingertips.

Calcium-channel blockers may also be given to treat high blood pressure.

Possible side effects include:

Low blood pressure

Constipation

Nausea

Lightheadedness

Headache

Swelling

Vasodilators

These medications are used for Raynauds phenomenon that is not responding to other forms of treatment. They are also used to heal digital ulcerations and to treat pulmonary hypertension associated with scleroderma.

Possible side effects include:

Life threatening pulmonary artery pressure changes

Liver damage

Blood pressure changes

Blood Pressure Medications

Blood pressure medications are given to lower high blood pressure.

Possible side effects include:

Flushing of the skin

Cough

Headaches

Nausea

Jaw pain

Fainting

Prostanoids

Prostanoids are given to improve circulation of blood.

Possible side effects include:

Low blood pressure

Dry mouth

Cough

Lightheadedness

Diarrhea or constipation

Antibiotics

Antibiotics may be given to help treat the diarrhea of scleroderma, which is often caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine.

Possible side effects include:

Nausea

Vomiting

Antibiotic allergic reaction

Increased sun sensitivity

H-2 Blockers

H-2 blockers help decrease acid production in the stomach. They may be given to help with
heartburn
and
indigestion.

Possible side effects include:

Lighheadedness

Confusion

Headache

Diarrhea

Proton Pump Inhibitors

Proton pump inhibitors decrease acid production in the stomach. They may be given to help with heartburn, indigestion, and difficulty swallowing.

Possible side effects include:

Lightheadedness

Headache

Diarrhea

Gastrointestinal Stimulants

These medications are given to improve difficulty swallowing.

Possible side effects include:

Heart rhythm problems

Diarrhea

Stomach upset, cramping

Headache

Lightheadedness

Sleepiness

Over-the-Counter Medications

Antacids

Antacids work to neutralize acidity in the stomach. They’re given to improve symptoms of heartburn and indigestion

Possible side effects include:

Diarrhea

Constipation

Special Considerations

Whenever you are taking a prescription medication, take the following precautions:

Take your medicines as directed. Do not change the amount or the schedule.

Do not stop taking them without talking to your doctor.

Do not share them.

Ask what results and side effects to expect. Report them to your doctor.

Some drugs can be dangerous when mixed. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist if you are taking more than one drug. This includes over-the-counter medicines and herb or dietary supplements.

Plan ahead for refills so you don’t run out.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Scleroderma. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at:
http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health%5FInfo/Scleroderma/default.asp. Updated August 2012. Accessed May 20, 2014.